When entering expressions in Text Mode (2-D or graphing calculator-style) or Symbol Mode (WYSIWYG) with the Math Editor, keep in mind the following.
The basic syntax for entering a mathematical formulas or expressions in the system enables you to quickly enter expressions using 2-D notation. You can enter formulas using standard mathematical notation (similar to that used in a graphing calculator) and, in general, the system correctly interprets it.
For example, the following formula is acceptable.
(x^2-2x+1) 2sin(x)(x^2+1)e^(-x^2)
Note: If a product includes one or more variables, always use an asterisk "*". For example, specify 2*$A.
The most common mistake is to forget parentheses "()". For example, the expression:
1/(x+1)
is different from
1/x+1
which the system interprets that as:
(1/x) + 1
Alternatively, you can use the symbolic math editor to enter expressions.
Place the argument of a function in parentheses. For example, enter sqrt(3x) not sqrt 3x,which is interpreted as (sqrt(3))*x.
Make sure that the variables you use in responses are exactly the same as displayed in the question.
Note: The grading system is
case sensitive with respect to variable names.
If the correct answer is:
(t+1)^2
then the response
T^2 + 2T +1
is graded wrong, but
t^2 + 2t +1
is correct.
Beware of case inconsistencies, like x and X or v and V. Make sure that your variables match the case of the variables in questions.
For:
Multiplication, use an asterisk "*". Alternatively, simply write:
Two letters with a space (for example, x y)
A letter and a number with or without a space (for example, 2x or 2 x). Note that two letters without a space represents a single variable name.
Exponentiation, use the caret "^".
Euler's Constant, 2.718..., use the letter e. (The exponential function is e^x.)
Scientific notation, use the upper case letter E. (For example, 0.78 is 7.8E-2.)
The trigonometric constant, 3.141..., use pi.
Common mathematical functions, use the standard abbreviated names (for example, sin, cos, and tan).
The arguments of trigonometric functions, remember they are measured in radians.
The square root function, use sqrt(x). (Alternatively, use x^(1/2) or x^0.5.)
The inverse trigonometric functions, use the standard abbreviated names (arcsin(x), arccos(x), and arctan(x)).
For more information, see the Mathematical Functions and Operations table.